Integration of Advanced Technologies Leads to Growth, Diversification

When Mike Payne acquired Hill Manufacturing seven years ago, he took control of a talented workforce operating a successful enterprise. But to continue that growth trajectory, Payne knew he needed to explore new markets, develop strategic plans, and integrate advanced technologies. For advice, he turned to Chris Luetjen, a manufacturing extension agent working for the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance (OMA), part of the MEP National Network™. Luetjen has worked with Payne on numerous projects and is considered a trusted advisor.

Luetjen worked closely with Payne and other company leaders to develop a robust, growth-focused plan. The strategy emphasized smart investments in automation and employee training to prepare the company for future expansions and, with the help of applications engineers working for the Manufacturing Alliance, Hill invested in advanced, high-tech equipment.

These technologies are vital for manufacturers to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced, global economy. They improve efficiency, reduce costs, and allow businesses to adapt to changing customer demands. Success with a series of collaborative robots (cobots) dramatically increased efficiency and freed Hill workers to focus on skilled tasks that require critical thinking and creativity. To make these advancements possible, Luetjen also helped the company secure a state matching grant designed to support businesses investing in innovative manufacturing systems. The increased production capacity opened doors to new markets. Luetjen guided Payne in identifying and evaluating these opportunities, ultimately helping Hill nearly double its sales.

At the same time, Luetjen ensured the company was able to push forward in its ongoing continuous improvement efforts, becoming increasingly efficient in its operations. These initiatives not only strengthened Hill’s production, but also fostered innovation, employee involvement, and sustainable growth for the long term.